[shanghai_nobody]

| FOOTBALL

Saturday, 15 August 2009 | Home > Sport > Football

Cook wants to instil fighting mentality

Cook is depending on captain Fabregas to scrap in midfield for the cause

Mark Cook was up bright and early today, arriving at the Emirates hours in advance of the kick off of the new season and his first competitive game in charge of Arsenal. When his side take on Fulham today it will be the beginning of the rookies managerial career.

A full house is expected at the Emirates today and Cook is hoping to give them what they want, “No disrespect to Fulham they are a great team, but we should be winning. They’ve put on some brilliant displays against us in recent years and won.

“So I’ve told the players to prepare for a battle, they cannot underestimate a single team we take on this year if we are to end this trophy drought.

“We need to make the Emirates a fortress, if we are going to win anything this season we have to look at maximum points at home.”
With four new signings brought in so far with Thomas Vermaelen, Miguel Veloso, Khouma Babacar and Nicola N’Koulou it is thought only one will feature. “Miguel will start, he is a great player and he’ll bring some bite to our play. Khouma is still young and Nicolas will have a little while to wait for his first team debut.”

When asked if he was nervous about the kick off Cook said, “No, I’m excited, very excited. I love this club and when I walk down that tunnel as manager I know already it will be the best day of my career.

“The players are fired up and I am confident, I’m looking forward to the game and I’m hopeful of kicking off the campaign with a win.”

With four years without a trophy Cook is hoping to bring some grit into the teams game plan, “We play beautiful football, that cannot be denied but it isn’t yielding silverware. The lads have to get into the oppositions faces, get stuck in and win the important 50/50’s and show they won’t be pushed around.

“If we can add some grit and determination to our play we will end the season with a trophy.” Which one? The manager said that he would welcome any, “If we win one trophy it will push the players on for more, we have to be pushing for the league we are a big club and should be contending. The players just want to experience success and any trophy will do. Our focus is the league, we will be pushing for the Premiership.”

[shanghai_nobody]

| FOOTBALL

Saturday, 15 August 2009 | Home > Sport > Football

Victory tainted by Van Persie dismissal

Andrey Arshavin opens the scoring on the first day of the season

Arsenal 2 Arshavin 10, Van Persie 28
Fulham 0

Despite only one new signing on display today in the form of Miguel Veloso it is evident that Mark Cook has wrung the changes behind the scenes. Young Aaron Ramsey partnered captain Cesc Fabregas in the heart of midfielder, Philip Senderos returned to the Arsenal first team after a loan spell at AC Milan.

The Swiss defender is obviously the man Cook hopes to bring some of the strength he wants, while limited in his play Senderos is by far the biggest central defender the club have and will give them much more ability in the air when it comes to defending and a target for corners.

Theo Walcott also found himself up front with Robin Van Persie, while employed as a Winger under the Wenger era Cook seemingly hopes to utilise the Englishman in his preferred position up front. A old era diamond midfield was put on show, with no real wingers at the club Cook seems to be hoping to get the best out of his squad by playing through the middle, Andrey Arshavin was in behind the strikers again in his preferred position.

Immediately evident in this fixture was the dominance of the Arsenal defence, despite plying his trade as a striker during his playing days Cook is keen to tighten up a back line which was folded under pressure. Senderos played no small part, his physical presence was key in silencing Andy Johnson who was bossed by the Swiss defender.

In a game that Arsenal dominated the result was over by half time, the first goal coming from the little Russian Andrey Arshavin broke the deadlock just ten minutes in. Arshavin terrorised the Fulham backline with his central position, sitting just behind the front two the Russian was given license to run at and get in behind the Fulham defence.

A lovely flowing move reached its climax in a stunning long range drive from the fan favourite, Arshavin was involved in the build up when he found Gael Clichy out on the left wing, the Frenchman cut the ball square to Ramsey who found Arshavin in space. The Russian attacking midfielder took one touch to lay the ball off before lashing in a stunning twenty yard strike that rocketed into the top corner.

With the omission of any wingers both Glichy and Sagna marauded up the flanks to devastating effect. The full backs were given license to pour forward with Veloso ready to slip back into defence alongside Gallas and Senderos who were both outstanding today, if an Arsenal attack broke down.

The second goal came from a penalty just eighteen minutes later, Arshavin was once again involved. Constantly he pushed forward into the box and he ultimately won the penalty, as Sagna drifted in a cross the towering centre back was judged to have pushed the little Russian, immediately the referee pointed to the spot but it was ultimately a harsh decision.

Robin Van Persie stepped up and converted with aplomb to claim his first goal of the season, Cook has stated he plans to deploy the Dutch man as a central striker and stated he feels it could add ten goals to his usual haul meaning he could finally break into the 20’s in terms of goals.

Despite furious protested which may have been a tactic to delay the penalty or a real feeling of anger at a harsh decision had no affect on the Dutchman, stepping up coolly he smashed his penalty straight into the top corner, a perfect penalty that no keeper would have saved.

Less than ten minutes a solid performance was tempered by Van Persie receiving his marching orders with a straight red card. The Dutchman tracked back as Fulham finally mustered an attack in the latter stage of the first half, as Pantsil received the ball Van Persie came crashing in with a terrible late challenge. Lee Probert had no choice but to flash a red card, in his post match comments Cook backed the referee and stated he would not be appealing and instead would be having some harsh words with the striker.

Despite a red card it did demonstrate that Arsenal are willing to fight to win matches, with a comfortable lead and in cruise control the striker felt the need to aid his side in defence but ultimately a lack of defensive ability meant a red card.

The second half was a quiet affair, Cook was happy to lock the barn door and settle for a 2-0 victory. In the second forty five minutes Arsenal demonstrated the ability to hold onto a lead which was lacking at times under Wenger. They kept the ball well and battled in midfield to halt any Fulham attacks.

When Fulham did get forward a solid back four was more than a match for a beleaguered Fulham front line. Despite one poor flash point with Van Persie being sent off it was an impressive performance from Arsenal who looked like a new side, while retaining the beautiful pass and move play they adopted under Wenger. The home fans applauded the players and manager as they trooped off with the three points on the opening day of the season.

Arsenal (4-1-2-1-2) Almunia, Sagna, Clichy, Senderos, Gallas, Veloso, Fabregas (Diaby ’72), Ramsey, Arshavin, Walcott (Eduardo ’67), Van Persie
Subs Not Used Mannone, Vermaelen, Denilson, Bendtner, Eboue
Booked Sagna, Clichy, Gallas, Veloso
Red Card Van Persie

Fulham (4-4-2) Schwarzer, Pantsil, Konchesky, Hangeland, Hughes, Gera, Kamara, Greening, Murphy, Nevland (Zamora ’80), Johnson (Baird ’60)
Subs Not Used Zuberbuhler, Stoor, Kelly, Dempsey, Kallio
Booked Kamara, Murphy

Man of the Match Andrey Arshavin (7.8 on for 90 minutes)

Referee Lee Probert

Emirates Stadium 60,361

[shanghai_nobody]

Tuesday 18th August 2009
Robin Van Persie ruled out of Atletico match with injury

Van Persie will miss the Atletico fixture with a pulled hamstring

Ahead of a tough qualifying fixture against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, rookie manager Mark Cook has been dealt a blow with Robin Van Persie injuring himself today in training.

The Dutch striker scored on the opening day of the season against Fulham on Saturday before a terribly timed tackle seen him receive his marching orders. Despite this the Dutchman would have been selected to take on Atletico but now it seems doubtful after picking up a hamstring niggle.

“It isn’t a serious injury, he pulled up in training today so we got him to the medical team quickly.” Cook said today, “It’s a little hamstring injury, it looks like he’ll be out for just over a week.”

Painkilling injections are an option to get the Dutch striker through the ninety minutes away to Atletico Madrid. “That is an option, it isn’t ideal and I’ve never really favoured painkilling injections. I think with regards to injuries a player should be left to naturally get better with physio and specialist treatment, forcing a player to play when injured only aggravates the injury.”

Robin Van Persie spoke out today, “It’s been an odd start for me, I scored at the weekend and more importantly we got all three points. Then I was sent off for a silly challenge, I was keen to play against Atletico to maintain match sharpness and to help get us to the group stages.

“If the manager says he will not play me I understand, if he suggests painkilling injections I will take them because I want to play. The most important thing is we get a good result and if the manager feels we have a better chance with or without me I’ll accept that.”

Meanwhile the FA are going to review Van Persie’s decision with the possibility of increasing his ban which currently stands at one match, “The FA constantly and Fifa say the referee’s word is final. He made a stupid challenge and he was punished by being sent off and given a one match ban.

“I think that is enough, he isn’t a persistent fouler or known for bad tackles. He made a mistake and I don’t think any further bans should be handed out.”

[K3V0]

I think what Fola meant was that all the stories are with Arsenal and follow the same path.

As in Wenger leaves, Cook comes in, Fabregas says something, etc... I think personally that the lad is one of the best story writers around and I've said in the past I read a story of his about two years ago which inspired me to start writing.

Keep this up man, you deserve something in the hall of fame if you keep continuing this story

[shanghai_nobody]

K3V0, on 21 December 2009 - 12:07 AM, said:

I think what Fola meant was that all the stories are with Arsenal and follow the same path.

As in Wenger leaves, Cook comes in, Fabregas says something, etc... I think personally that the lad is one of the best story writers around and I've said in the past I read a story of his about two years ago which inspired me to start writing.

Keep this up man, you deserve something in the hall of fame if you keep continuing this story

I'm an Arsenal fan so I have a preference to putting myself in haha, thanks for the comment buddy it's appreciated. I moved Wenger to Madrid this time in the game for a little change, I'm not overly bothered about the opening. I think it's the match reports and info over the season that makes a good story like yours.

[shanghai_nobody]

Arsenal perform heroic comeback against Atletico

Champions League
Atletico Madrid 1 Forlan 1
Arsenal 2 Arshavin 8, Bendtner 35

_______________________________________________________________

Kevin McCarra at the Vicente Calderon
guardian.co.uk, Wednesday 19th August 2009 13:41GMT
Article history

___________________________________________________________________

Bendtner struck Arsenals second to make amends for an earlier mistake.

As the teams trooped out tonight it was evident that Robin Van Persie had lost his race to be fit. The Arsenal striker had to watch on from the stands after he was judged not to be fit enough even for the bench, Cook surprised many by opting for Bendtner to partner Walcott in attack instead of Eduardo.

Senderos was dropped after a fine display against Fulham at the weekend, a debut was instead handed to Thomas Vermaelen at the back with William Gallas. Miguel Veloso was missing after being cup tied with Alex Song slipping into the defensive midfielder role tonight. One glowing omission from the Atletico side was the fact Sergio Aguero did not figure, injury ruled him out with the Argentine still not recovering from a broken shoulder.

Cook may have been cursing his decision to tamper with a defence that looked solid against Fulham after Atletico were up by a goal with less than a minute on the clock. Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner will have to shoulder a healthy portion of blame over the early goal. The Danish striker strangely attempted to play the ball all the way back to Gallas, he over hit his pass and it went zipping past the Frenchman.

Top marks to Forlan who was first to react to the mistake, a burst of pace took him away from Gallas and onto the ball. The clinical striker charged forward with Gallas desperately sprinting after him, Forlan kept his cool and once he was in the box with a glance up he picked his spot and drilled the ball low across Almunia into the far corner. A sublime finish, but ultimately a mistake from Bendtner that resulted in his side going behind early on.

Arsenal would only trail for seven minutes before Arshavin popped up to equalise for the away side. A quick freekick was taken by Denilson, this match could ultimately be the Brazilians swan song after a bid from Manchester City was accepted. Walcott took the ball and powered forward, with seemingly no way through the Atletico backline he fed the ball to Arshavin. From just inside the area the little Russian took the ball on his left foot before nimbly shifting to his right to unleash a ferocious low drive that seemed to take no effort. The ball flashed passed Asenjo and straight into his bottom corner, another stunning strike from Arshavin.

With seventeen minutes on the clock Forland was guilty of wasting a guilt edged chance, a beautiful ball from Jurado sent Forlan clean through and with the goal at his mercy he feebly shot straight at Almunia, the Spanish keeper didn’t even have to move. A wasted chance.

On the half hour mark Atletico keeper Asenjo showed the kind of skill that has seen Mark Cook have his scouts out watching him in Spain. Some beautiful link up play put Fabregas through on goal, the Spanish midfielder did everything right as he aimed for the bottom corner but Asenjo was equal to it getting down low to palm the ball around the post, a great save.

As half time approached the great Dane Nicklas Bendtner put his side in front to atone for his earlier mistake. Arsenal had grown into the game taking a steady grip on the fixture and it seemed only a matter of time before the visitors took the lead.

The goal came from a rare miss from Arshavin, he was played in by Walcott but seen his close range shot cannon off the post. The ball spun out to the left wing where Clichy swung in a deep corner, the ball drifted to the back post, Bendtner lurked with intent and leaped to power the ball home from close range with his head.

With Arsenal going in front the second half could have been an exciting affair if it wasn’t for the referee. Swiss referee Claudio Circhetta seemed intent on maintaining a stranglehold on proceedings, all he managed was to choke any life out of the second half. Play was constantly stopped as nine bookings and a red card were dished out.

Arsenal had the simple task of playing out with a slender lead, Gallas was on top form as he and a resilliant Arsenal back four kept Atletico at bay. The final flashpoint came in extra time as another Arsenal target was sent off, Ignacio Camacho got himself a foolish second booking and a red card soon followed.

Camacho is thought to be on Cooks radar but the young Spanish defensive midfielder done himself no favours with his performance today. A poor display was capped when Arshavin once again surged forward only for Camacho to hold onto his jersey for dear life, before hauling him down to the ground. The referee had no choice but to issue a second yellow and subsequent red.

Arsenal surprisingly managed to control the game while in cruise control, Atletico failed to really pressure the away side. Their only goal came from an Arsenal mistake, but the London side will be happy to go into the second leg with a one goal advantage and two precious away goals.

Atletico Asenjo, Juanito (Valera ’63), Lopez, Perea, Ujfalusi (Pablo ’51), Santana (Camacho ’45), Garcia, Cani, Simao, Jurado, Forlan
Subs Not Used Doblas, Assuncao, Gohi Bi, Angel
Booked Perea, Ujfalusi, Garcia, Camacho
Red Card Camacho

Arsenal Almunia, Sagna, Clichy, Gallas, Vermaelen, Song, Fabregas, Denilson (Ramsey ’61), Arshavin, Bendtner (Vela ’86), Walcott (Eduardo ’61)
Subs Not Used Mannone, Eboue, Diaby, Senderos
Booked Sagna, Clichy, Vermaelen, Song

Man of the Match William Gallas (7.5 on for 90 minutes)

Referee Claudio Circhetta

This post has been edited by shanghai_nobody: 21 December 2009 - 01:28 PM

[shanghai_nobody]

| FOOTBALL

Thursday, 20 August 2009 | Home > Sport > Football

Denilson takes swipe at Cook after departure

Brazilian midfielder Denilson joined Man City for £9.25million today

Denilson returned from Madrid today as he played in Arsenals 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid, the Champions League match turned out to be the players swan song as his move to Manchester City was completed today. With City not playing in European competition this season Cook decided to play Denilson last night.

The young midfielder joined from Sao Paulo in 2006 as the Brazil u20 captain with bags of promise. Denilson was in and out of the first team picture at Arsenal under Wenger but when Cook arrived his fate was sealed, the Scotsman has not stated publicly but it seems the new manager felt that Denilson was simply not good enough. Fans seemingly agree with many stating they were pleased with the transfer and the money brought in, City splashed out £9.25million in one lump sum for the midfielder.

Cook will only see half of the cash he has brought in though, the rest will go to the board and ultimately loan repayments for the Emirates stadium.

Denilson took a swipe at the clubs new manager after signing his five year contract which will pocket him £53,000 a week. “The manager didn’t want me, I loved the club and I told him I wanted to stay but he didn’t want me. Eventually I moved because I don’t want to remain at a club who don’t want me.

“Hopefully this move to City will lead to future silverware and a chance to prove Cook wrong.”

The Scotsman seemed non perturbed about the public attack aimed at him, “I’m not sure what his problem is. I was honest with him and said that he wouldn’t feature in my first team plans much and perhaps a move would be the best thing for him. I can understand he is upset at having to leave but these things happen.

“I don’t hold any grudges with Denilson, he is someone I liked and wish him all the best in his future.”

Cook is thought to be in the market for an experienced replacement to partner Fabregas in the centre of the pitch,
“Definitely, we need to bring in another central midfielder and I am working on that. I won’t rush because I want to bring in the best possible player.”

Mark Hughes was happy with his new signing, fans have been confused at the hefty fee splashed out for Denilson and the rather heady wage packet. “I think time will show everyone we got a bargain. Denilson is a brilliant player and he is still young, he’s only going to improve as a player and I think he will slot into or side perfectly.”

[K3V0]

shanghai_nobody, on 21 December 2009 - 10:25 AM, said:

I'm an Arsenal fan so I have a preference to putting myself in haha, thanks for the comment buddy it's appreciated. I moved Wenger to Madrid this time in the game for a little change, I'm not overly bothered about the opening. I think it's the match reports and info over the season that makes a good story like yours.

I like a story to be realistic. You are like me, I get the best games out of playing as United and my best stories as well. Personally I think you should just keep up the good work mate, cracking read so far as usual!

[shanghai_nobody]

Arshavin continued a fine goal scoring start to the season

Cooks third match in charge of Arsenal threw a bitter rival match against Tottenham his way. The Scotsman knows all too well how much this means to the fans having played in the North London derby many times himself. Fans would only accept victory especially with the match being at home, if anything other than three points were sealed at the end of the match then the fans would soon be on Cooks back.

Once the game kicked off all nerves should have evaporated from the rookie managers mind. Tottenham were awful to put it simply, Modric and Diop were the only two players to escape with any sense of respect while Robbie Keane was virtually non-existent, worse than the Irish strikers performance was Redknapps decision to leave him on the pitch until five minutes from time.

The midfield diamond was once again used to devastating effect, with Arshavin at the tip Arsenal constantly stabbed and probed the Tottenham defence from start to finish. An all out attacking performance had the visitors on the backfoot from the first whistle leaving them no chance to get into the match.

Eduardo picked a fine match to score his first goal of the season, with Cooks preferred pairing seemingly Van Persie and Walcott the Croatian international was given his chance as Van Persie sat out due to suspension.

Arsenals first goal was the result of some scintillating passing, starting with Almunia the midfield sprayed passes around with effortless ease pulling Tottenham this way and that. It was all too easy for Arsenal to pull the Tottenham players out of position to create space at the back.

A total of twelve slick passes worked the ball from the Arsenal box to the Tottenham one, Walcott was slipped in with a deft touch from Arshavin only a stunning save from Gomes denied Walcott. The Spurs keeper rushed out to block the shot on the edge of the area but the rebound fell perfectly for Eduardo who slipped the ball casually into an empty net from just outside the box.

Minutes after the restart Arshavin continued a lethal strike rate, his goal today made it three in three for the Russian. Arshavin is revelling in his new position just behind the strikers, Cook adjusting the formation to accommodate Arshavin is already paying dividends.

Arshavin showed his swift nimble footwork to claim his third goal of the season, Walcott slotted a through ball into the box for Arshavin to latch onto. Easily rounding a challenge from Assou-Ekotto before charging on to skip past Corluka before casually slotting the ball under Gomes, a beautiful piece of work from the little Russian.

Lady luck was on Tottenham’s side, she prevented the club from leaving the Emirates without conceding another goal. Despite more possession Tottenham failed to make it work for them, failing to craft any clear chances and once Arshavin scored it was all over. Cook stated after the match he felt his side should have scored more, but he was just happy to record a victory over the clubs biggest rivals.

Arsenal Almunia, Sagna (Eboue ’61), Clichy, Gallas, Senderos, Veloso, Diaby (Ramsey ’61), Fabregas, Arshavin, Walcott (Bendtner ’81), Eduardo
Subs Not Used Mannone, Vela, Vermaelen, Gibbs
Booked Gallas
Goals Eduardo 38, Arshavin 48

Tottenham Gomes, Corluka, Assou-Ekotto, Booth, King, Lennon, Modric (Bassong ’79), Diop, Palacios (Hutton ’85), Keane (Pavlyuchenko ’85), Crouch
Subs Not Used Cudicini, Kranjcar, Naughton, Jankulovski
Booked King

Man of the Match Andrey Arshavin (7.5 on for 90 minutes)

Referee Mike Dean

Emirates Stadium 60,361

[shanghai_nobody]

Van Persie given further two match ban

Arsenal today found out the fate of Robin Van Persie, after receiving a straight red card on the opening day of the season the Dutch striker was forced to sit out the North London derby victory over Tottenham.

An FA review board decided to look over the challenge with the prospect of a further ban being handed out against the Dutch striker. Cook had already stated that a one match ban was suffice but the FA board disagreed after handing out a further two match ban.

Cook was incensed with the decision that will rule Van Persie out the clubs next two domestic fixtures, two away matches to West Ham and Wigan.

A short statement from the disciplinary board said, “The referee was right to issue a red card after a late and reckless tackle from Robin Van Persie. The FA disciplinary board felt that a further ban should be imposed, a further two match ban has been handed out.”

Arsenal manager Cook had accepted the red card and subsequent one match ban but after today’s decision he was incensed. “I think it is a joke, on the first day of the season players are rusty and will make mistakes. Robin did that and a red card was deserved and he accepted that.

“He also accepted he should be ruled out for one match, the tackle had no malice in it just a bit of stupidity.”

The club are unlikely to appeal the decision as the board will be unlikely to revoke any decision as they look to lay down the law early on in the season.

Van Persie was down trodden today after the decision was made, “The manager and club made a claim that no further action should be taken. I apologised to Pantsil after the game, he accepted the apology.

“To be given a three match ban this early in the season is a massive blow, it’s important to get as much playing time as you can early on to get match fit and the sharpness you need. As a striker it is also important to try and bag a few goals early on, sadly I’ll just have to maintain fitness in training and watch from the sidelines.”

[Sunday, 23rd August, 2009]

[shanghai_nobody]

Arshavin makes it four goals in four games

One match stood between Arsenal and the lucrative Champions League group stages. Since moving to the Emirates the London club have depended on Champions League money to finance the clubs loans. With a strong performance in Spain the advantage was firmly with Arsenal today at the Emirates.

With two away goals and a slender one goal lead the London club could have been forgiven if they sat back, under Cook though it seems attacking football is always going to be in order.

Andrey Arshavin was once again in lethal form as he opened the scoring, the Russian internationalist made it four goals in four games since Cook moved him to a more central position. Since Cook took over Arshavin has been central to everything, linking up play from midfield to the forward line while getting forward whenever possible to cause damage of his own. In his first full season in English football he is showing the talent that made Arsene Wenger make an uncharacteristic January transfer move.

Before the breakthrough came Asenjo was in fine form to keep Atletico in the game, Cook still has his scouts watching the Spanish keeper. Arshavin whipped in a corner straight onto the head of Alex Song, from within the six yard box the Cameroon player done everything right and aimed his header down low and hard but Asenjo still managed to somehow get down and produce a stunning save.

Route one football surprisingly gave Arsenal the breakthrough, under Cook the beautiful passing game has been enhanced if anything. But this goal was born from a long punt up from Gallas into the path of Walcott, the nippy England winger took the ball out wide before his cross come shot cannoned off the bar, the rebound fell kindly to Arshavin who was left with an open goal to casually nod the ball into.

Arshavin could have added a second minutes later, a beautifully chipped ball from Van Persie into the Russians path resulted in a low drive at the near post but Asenjo was down quickly again to deny Arsenal and to save his poor defence further blushes.
Just after the restart Juanito wasted a perfect chance, a corner was swung into the near post by Simao and Juanito was criminally unmarked. Inside the six yard box and with no challenge he managed to power his header clear over the bar, an embarrassing miss.

Arsenal were not to have it all their own way, Atletico did equalise through a stunning freekick. Against the flow of the game the Spanish side did level things up, despite that they still failed to get going and come close to causing an upset to reach the hallowed turf of Champions League football.

Santana bagged his first goal for Atletico, a vicious strike rocketed low past the wall before curling into Almunia’s bottom corner. It was a stunning strike and Almunia was left with no choice.

Come the end of ninety minutes Atletico had failed to come close to increasing on their equaliser, instead it was Arsenal who celebrated as they strolled into the group stage and the serious money.

Arsenal Almunia, Sagna, Clichy, Gallas, Vermaelen, Song, Fabregas, Ramsey, Arshavin, Walcott (Eduardo ’67), Van Persie (Vela ’67)
Subs Not Used Mannone, Eboue, Gibbs, Senderos, Wilshere
Goals Arshavin 32

Atletico Asenjo, Valera, Lopez, Juanito, Perea, Garcia, Santana (Ujfalusi ’64), Simao (Angel ’59), Cani, Jurado (Aguero ’69), Forlan
Subs Not Used Roberto, Assuncao, Sinama-Pongolle, Koke
Goals Santana 58

Man of the Match Celber Santana (7.6 on for 64 minutes)

Referee Vladimir Hrinak

Emirates Stadium 60,361

[shanghai_nobody]

| FOOTBALL

Thursday, 27 August 2009 | Home > Sport > Football

Arsenal given easy Champions League group

Arsenal will be looking to improve on last years semi-final exit to Man Utd

Mark Cook arguably guided Arsenal through the most difficult of all the qualifying fixtures, his side came through 3-2 on aggregate against Spanish giants Atletico Madrid. For Cook to remain at the Emirates the very least expected from the Scotsman is a quarter final place, a tall order for a rookie manager but he was gifted with a relatively easy group and a classic football twist.

Group F
ARSENAL
Rangers
Fiorentina
Standard Liege

The draw was kind to Arsenal, the only stern test will come from Fiorentina while the London side are expected to breeze past Rangers and Standard. One twist is the fact that Cook will take his Arsenal side to his boyhood club Rangers, Cook spent seven years at Rangers as a player before moving to Arsenal. He has never hidden his love for the club being spotted many times with the fans at Ibrox.

“It will be strange, I spent a large part of my career at Rangers and I’ve supported the club since I was a boy, but I am going to be looking to beat them.”

When asked about his sides chances of making it through the group Cook said, “I could sit here and be bashful and say it will be difficult, of course it is but with the size of this club we should be qualifying.

“That doesn’t mean it’s going to be easy, far from it every team in the competition at this stage have quality. Fiorentina are a good side and Rangers know how to fight in Europe, Standard will be no walkovers either.”

Walter Smith also came out to talk about his former player, “It’s early days for Mark but he looks a very promising manager. He’s at a great club and we’ll be underdogs for the fixture. Mark and his side will definitely get a warm reception here he’s a big fan favourite.

“But I know Mark and he knows me, when the first whistle goes we will both be going all out for the three points. After the game whatever the result we’ll have a drink and a catch up.”

Cook has had a boost to his squad ahead of the champions league with Tomas Rosicky resuming full time training today. Rosicky has been out for seven weeks with a pulled hamstring, the Czech midfielder has been struck with persistent hamstring injuries since his move to Arsenal from Dortmund.

“We won’t rush him into action, it’s great to have him back because he is a great player but we’ll take our time with him and make sure he is fully fit before returning.” Cook said on the players return.

Rosicky was clearly in a good mood after completing his first full training session in a almost a year and a half, “It’s a huge relief, being on the sidelines for that long is very difficult. I owe a lot to Arsenal for sticking with me and getting me the best help possible, I’d like to show the fans what I can do and I’m eager to get up to speed and help the club anyway I can.”

Group A: CHELSEA – Real Madrid – Stuttgart – M.Haifa
Group B: LIVERPOOL – Juventus – Besiktas – Unirea Urziceni
Group C: AC Milan – Wolfsburg – AZ – FC Copenhagen
Group D: Barcelona – Lyon – Dinamo Kiev – Rubin
Group E: MANCHESTER UNITED – Porto – Olympiakos – Partizan
Group F: ARSENAL – RANGERS – Fiorentina – Standard
Group G: Inter – Sevilla – OM – Dinamo Moscow
Group H: FC Bayern – CSKA Moscow – Bordeaux - Wisla

[shanghai_nobody]

Bendtner was in scintillating form today against West Ham

Robin Van Persies suspension today was all forgot after a stunning performance by Nicklas Bendtner. The whole Arsenal side were on scintillating form as they destroyed West Ham away from home, while Eduardo failed to take a stunning array of chances the Danish striker bagged himself four goals in his first league start of the season.

Just eight minutes in and Bendtner nabbed his first which would become a fruitful 90 minutes for the young striker. Arshavin swung in a corner that was seemingly floating straight to Spector on the near post, but the West Ham man misjudged his jump only for the ball to go gliding over him, it dropped kindly for Bendtner who came in behind and smashed the ball into the roof of the net from within the six yard box.

On the quarter hour mark Bendtner popped up again with a stunning strike, Sagna fed the ball to the striker on the edge of the box. Bendtner took one touch to take him away Parker before wrong footing Green as he curled the ball into the tightest of margins at the keepers near post, a stunning finish.

Just after the hour mark Bendtner complete his hattrick, Arshavin once again provided the magic but it would be the Russians last part in the match after he was forced off with an injury. Arshavin floated in from the left wing some neat footwork helping him into the box before he drilled the ball to the feet of Bendtner putting it on a plate for the Dane, who was left with a simple tap in.

Celebrations were cut short as arguably Arsenals best player so far this season nodded over to the bench before setting up Bendtner. His part in the game was over with young Jack Wilshere coming on in his place to make his first appearance of the season.

Ten minutes later and the rout had been complete on Gianfranco Zolas side, Bendtner again to the agony of the home support came in to claim his fourth of the game. It was another stunning strike from the edge of the area, some smooth like up play from Arsenal again pulled West Ham all over the pitch.

Bendtner finished a fine flowing move with aplomb, Fabregas slipped the ball to him at the edge of the box, with his back to goal his first touch was to control the ball before swiftly turning to smash the ball down the centre of the goal and past a helpless Green.

Arsenal were lethal, under Wenger the club were guilty of beautiful football but failing to take chances. With the same strike force Cook has changed that with brutal effect which West Ham were on the end of today. The Hammers failed to get into the game, Arsenal relentlessly poured forward pinning West Ham back in their own half. The home side managed a meagre two shots on target during the full ninety minutes, an emphatic and comprehensive victory for Arsenal.

West Ham Green, Spector (Kovac ’66), Ilunga, Gabbidon, Upson, Parker, Noble, Collison, Johansson, Franco (Matejovsky ’66), Diamanti (Cole ’45)
Subs Not Used Kurucz, Ball, Daprela, da Costa

Arsenal Almunia, Sagna (Eboue ’52), Clichy, Senderos, Gallas, Veloso, Fabregas, Diaby, Arshavin (Wilshere ’66), Bendtner, Eduardo (Babacar ’52)
Subs Not Used Mannone, Gibbs, Walcott, Vermaelen
Goals Bendtner 8, 25, 65, 75

Man of the Match Nicklas Bendtner (9.6 on for 90 minutes)

Referee Peter Walton

Upson Park 34,980

[shanghai_nobody]

Arsenal splash £10 million on Moutinho
Arsenal beat Real Madrid for highly rated youngster
Moutinho excited to play with Fabregas and Arshavin in midfield

___________________________________________________________________

Paul Doyle
guardian.co.uk, Sunday 30th August 2009 13:41GMT
Article history

___________________________________________________________________

Joao Moutinho is the latest capture for rookie Cook. Photograph: Getty Images

Joao Moutinho joined his former Sporting teammate Miguel Veloso at the Emirates today after completing a £10million transfer. Half of his fee was funded from the sale of Denilson as Cook sought experience in his midfield.

Moutinho has finally made the step up after 136 appearances for Sporting, for years the former Sporting captain and Portuguese internationalist has been linked with a move to various Premiership clubs and Arsenal were not the only club trailing the midfielder with Arsene Wenger duelling to lure him to Madrid. On this occasion the protégé has been victorious.

Despite Wengers millions he pulled out of the race, “I was set on Arsenal, I had heard about Madrid but it wasn’t the move for me. I think my style of play is suited more to England and Arsenal are a huge club also.

“I’m driven to play first team football and I will get that at Arsenal and the side are packed with talent. We have the quality to win things.” Moutinho stated today, his friend Miguel Veloso was ecstatic to see his friend join him in London.

“Joao is a fantastic player, I’ve played with him for years he will be the perfect partner for Cesc. They both work very hard and it will be fantastic to play alongside him again.”

Despite being only 23 the Portuguese midfielder has a wealth of experience in Europe and domestic football, “He’s ready for the step up, he is a fantastic player and he will work fantastically well with Cesc in the centre of the pitch. I’m very glad to have landed such an impressive player and I think he’ll be a hugely important player for us.”

Moutinho like Veloso will be unavailable for champions league football after playing for Sporting, despite that Cook is sure he’ll have a huge part to play in domestic fixtures. “He is a tireless midfielder, that is what we’ve lacked in recent seasons. We’re great going forward but we need a combative player who’ll get stuck in and he loves doing that.

“On top of this he’ll run all day long and cover huge parts of the pitch, he is a threat going forward and he is a great passer of the ball and he can dictate the tempo.”

Moutinho is keen to get straight into the first team picture at Arsenal, while being bashful it is fully expected he’ll go straight into the first team. “I’m new to the team and I might not be in the managers plans straight away. I’m fit and raring to go I can’t wait to get a chance to play alongside Veloso, Fabregas and Arshavin in midfield they are some of the finest players in the world.”

Printable version Send to a friend Share Clip Contact us Article history

[shanghai_nobody]

Arshavin out for a month
Hamstring injury will keep the little Russian out for a month
Cook sad at loss of in form Arshavin having scored four in five

___________________________________________________________________

Paul Doyle
guardian.co.uk, Monday 31st August 2009 13:41GMT
Article history

___________________________________________________________________

Anguished Arshavin was forced off against West Ham. Photograph: Getty Images

With the fans on a high from an impressive start and the capture of Joao Moutinho under the noses of Real Madrid. A darker mood fell over the Emirates after Andrey Arshavin was ruled out for three weeks with a pulled hamstring.

Arshavin has been in lethal form scoring four goals in five games, with a handful of assists along the way. The Russian international has been in stunning form since being moved to his preferred position just behind the strikers.

“I have adjusted things to help get the most out of some players, one of them was Andrey. It doesn’t always work but in this case it has worked, he’s been outstanding in every match he has played.” Cook said today after announcing the injury.

“Sadly he is looking at around three weeks to a month out with a pulled hamstring, we do have other options but it’s always hard to lose a player on such fine form. Hopefully when he returns he will come back with the same kind of form.”

Andrey Arshavin was gutted about his untimely injury, “I’ve been loving my football with my new position and role within the team. I feel this is the best start to a season I’ve ever made in my career, I’m keen to get fit again and return to first team action.”

Meanwhile Nicklas Bendtner has come out to state he can lead the team to silverware this season, the Danish striker bagged four goals against West Ham at the weekend after the match he said. “I hope the manager knows I am ready to lead this side, we are playing beautiful football and I showed I can do a job for the club. I’m hoping the manager will make me one of his first choice two and I’ll bang them in.”

Cook spoke out about the Danes plea, “He is on top of the world and rightfully so after his last performance. One performance does not stake a claim for a first team place though, he will continue to get his chance and if he keeps taking them then I’ll happily make him a first choice.”

Meanwhile another striker made it into the record books at Arsenal, new £6.5million signing Khouma Babacar came off the bench against West Ham to make his debut and become the youngest ever gunner at 16 years and 177 days.

“Khouma was pleased to make his debut, we were light up front with Robin Van Persie out with suspension. He’s returning to the youth ranks and he is performing well, it will be a little while before he returns to first team football.” Cook said of his young signing.

Khouma stated, “It was the highest point of my career so far to make my debut, I know it will be a long time before I break into the first team but it was an exciting moment for me.”

Printable version Send to a friend Share Clip Contact us Article history

[shanghai_nobody]

Nicklas Bendtner papered over the cracks of an unimpressive Arsenal performance today, with Arshavin out the Gunners struggled against a well drilled Wigan side. Although Carlos Vela may have a sleepless night or two after missing two guilt edged chances that would have given his side all three points.

Along with Arshavin Dutch striker Robin Van Persie was also out through suspension, granting Bendtner his plea to lead the front line and he done just that with seventeen minutes on the clock. A loose pass was pounced on the Gunners and a smooth and lethal counter attack ensued.

Veloso pounced on the wayward attack immediately starting an attack as he fed the ball forward to Bendtner, the Dane used his first touch to spray the ball wide to Walcott. The English forward played the ball to Rosicky, his inch perfect pass rolled to the feet of Bendtner, his first touch was to cut inside his man before drilling the ball low into the corner. Another fluent and beautiful to watch move to Arsenal and another good finish for Bendtner.

The first half seen a barrage of assaults on the Wigan goal, Arsenal constantly set about enhancing their lead and Walcott was guilty of missing a perfect chance after being unleashed clean through on goal only to fire the ball straight at Kirkland.

Joao Moutinho was making his debut and looked impressive on the whole, the Portuguese midfielder failed to stamp himself on the match like he often does. But that will come in time, although it seems Cook has got the right man. Strong in midfield but constantly passing forward to spark attacks and joining in himself.

Rosicky returned from injury and while the Czech bagged an assist he was poor on the whole, Arshavin offers much more going forward and it was clear that Arsenal missed that today as they looked to break down a resolute Wigan backline. Rosicky seemed happy to attempt futile long range attempts while the Russian has used darting runs and nice footwork to go by his man and score.

Wigan rarely got forward but they did equal things just after the hour mark, N’Zogbia found it all too easy to beat a lacklustre Sagna. His ball drifted to the back post where Alumina would pull off a stunning double save, Koumas leaped above Vermaelen to head in from close range, the Spaniard managed to get across and palm away the ball, the rebound fell to Koumas again. This time he drilled from close range for Almunia to pull off another fine save, this time the rebound fell kindly to Rodallega who had an open net from within the six yard box to pass the ball into.

In the last ten minutes substitute Carlos Vela missed to stunning chances to seal all three points, the first came from a freekick right on the edge of the area. Ramsey swung in a perfect cross, Vela was left unmarked at the back post and managed to head the ball by from just a few yards out. A dismal effort when he should have hit the back of the net.

Rodallega was given just as good an opportunity, as Arsenal poured forward Wigan sprang a counter attack of their own. N’Zogbia charged down the left wing before releasing Rodallega in the box, with no one in his way he only had Almunia to beat. The Spaniard was in fine form, coming off his line he got down well to turn a low driven shot around the post.

Arsenal were undone today by themselves, the Gunners have been lethal in front of goal so far this season, today they just could not find the key. It seems no coincidence they struggle to a draw with Robin Van Persie and Andrey Arshavin out injured.

Wigan Kirkland, Melchiot, Figueroa, Boyce, Amaya (Rowlands ’45), Scharner, Koumas, N’Zogbia, Diame, Gibson (Won-Hee ’68), Rodallega
Subs Not Used Pollitt, Edman, Streit, Scotland, Routledge
Booked Scharner, N’Zogbia
Goals Rodallega 68

Arsenal Almunia, Sagna, Clichy, Gallas, Vermaelen, Veloso, Moutinho, Fabregas (Ramsey ’68), Rosicky (Vela ’68), Bendtner, Walcott (Eduardo ’64)
Subs Not Used Mannone, Senderos, Eboue, Song
Booked Gallas, Vermaelen
Goals Bendtner ‘17

Man of the Match Nicklas Bendtner (7.8 on for 90 minutes)

Referee Mike Dean

DW Stadium 22,338

[shanghai_nobody]

Ramsey dropped from Wales squad

Aaron Ramsey has been sensationally dumped from the Wales squad. The exciting young midfielder has featured more in the Arsenal so far this season, making two starts and three sub appearances in six games so far this season under Cook, the Scotsman has stated already that Ramsey is firmly in his first team plans this season.

That is not the sentiment that Welsh boss John Toshack shares, “I’m going to put Aaron back down to the under 21 side, he needs to prove himself again. If he isn’t playing regular first team football then he’ll need to show what he can do with the youngsters.” Toshack said to press this morning.

Cook came out swiftly to defend his young player, “I think the way he has gone about this is a joke. I don’t know if he’s bored or wanted some reason to be in the paper, but for Aaron to find out about this in the paper is a disgrace.

“He’s still a young lad, you need to give the youngsters confidence in themselves, not publicly demote them. I can understand his point and at the end of the day it is his decision, but a phone call and a wee chat would have been better.”

When asked if he thought this would affect Ramsey the new Gunners boss said, “He came in today for training hungry to prove himself. We’re both very passionate about our nationality and he wants to show what he can do for his country.

“I’ll say to you what I said to him, come Wales next fixture he’ll be selected. If he isn’t then who is better to replace him? He is the best central midfielder Wales have in their side.”

Ramsey moved from Cardiff City to Arsenal in 2008 for £5million, during that time he has made seven starts for his country. “I’m always proud when I pull on the Wales top, I’m happy to do it for the under 21 side if that will show the manager what I can do. It’s been a hard lesson to swallow, especially since I haven’t actually spoke to John yet.

“I’m glad the manager still believes in me to perform for Arsenal, I want to just focus on training for Arsenal and continuing the amount of starts I’ve had so far this season.”

[Saturday, 05th September, 2009]

[shanghai_nobody]

After the international break Arsenal welcomed Portsmouth to the Emirates today, keen to get back on track after a draw away to Wigan. Aaron Ramsey who was dropped to the Welsh u21 squad was forced to watch his country beat Russia from his home but today he was in the starting eleven for Arsenal.

Robin Van Persie returned from suspension to join Nicklas Bendtner who has scored on his last two outings for Arsenal. A stunning Arsenal performance was let down by the attack once again, minus Robin Van Persie.

Despite running out winners the London club should have really buried Portsmouth under a mountain of goals. Rosicky continued to look off the pace while Nicklas Bendtner seemed to drift completely out of the game for large portions. The defence and midfield were solid and stellar in their performance, the brightest star of them all was Aaron Ramsey who picked up a man of the match award.

The Welshman was clearly fuelled by his Wales snub and the backing of his manager Mark Cook, he ran the midfield and constantly stormed forward and bagged his first ever Arsenal goal to seal all three points.

Van Persie only took nine minutes to score upon his return from suspension, Ramsey was at the heart of the move. The Welshman sprayed around the passes and found Fabregas in space who set Van Persie loose on goal. Fabregas unleashed a beautiful twenty yard chipped ball into the path of the Dutchmans run.

With such a sublime pass it was all on Van Persie to not waste it, with a cool head his first touch brought the down sublimely before switching feet to use his right to curl the ball low around the body of James and into the faraway corner. A perfect finish to the delight of the home support.

It looked possible that Arsenal could run away with this fixture after such an early goal, that wasn’t to be the case as Portsmouth levelled the scoring just a minute late. Straight from the kick off Portsmouth poured forward to search for an equaliser and found a stunning one less than sixty seconds later.

Belhadj received the ball out on the left, he charged forward before slipping the ball cvross field to Smith, Tommy Smith turned with the ball, the Arsenal goal did not look in significant danger as he stood 25 yards out from goal until he unleashed a stunning long range drive that smashed into the top corner. An incisive breakaway from Portsmouth that angered Cook on the sidelines.

Nine minutes after the restart man of the match Aaron Ramsey put his side in front with his first Arsenal goal. Not to be outdone by Smith the young Welsh midfielder smashed in a stunning effort. Without Arshavin the home side again struggled to carve open the opposition defence, Ramsey took it upon himself to unleash a 25 yard effort of his own.

After taking the ball from Veloso a glance up and his first touch was a sweet curling effort, the ball swerved its way straight into the top corner. His delight was evident as he rushed over to Cook to celebrate with his teammates in tow.

In the end Arsenal rightfully won a game that they dominated for large parts of the game, “We have to accept a lot of teams will come here to grind us down by defending in numbers, we constantly attacked today but just never produced that final pass we needed on many occasions to breach the Portsmouth backline.” Cook said after the match.

Arsenal Almunia, Sagna (Eboue ’78), Clichy, Gallas, Vermaelen, Veloso, Fabregas, Ramsey, Rosicky (Moutinho ’67), Bendtner (Vela ’67) Van Persie
Subs Not Used Mannone, Diaby, Walcott, Senderos
Booked Sagna
Goals Van Persie 9, Ramsey 54

Portsmouth James, Primus, Hreidarsson, Kaboul, Ben-Haim (Wilson ’90), Mokoena, Hughes, Smith, Belhadj (Utaka ’70), Boateng, Piquionne
Subs Not Used Begovic, Finnan, O’Hara, Vanden Borre, Williamson
Booked Mokoena, Boateng
Goals Smith ‘10

Man of the Match Aaron Ramsey (8.0 on for 90 minutes)

Referee Lee Probert

Emirates Stadium 58,543

This post has been edited by shanghai_nobody: 28 December 2009 - 07:50 PM

[shanghai_nobody]

The champions league clash tonight at Ibrox had a warm feeling before kickoff, large banners stated ‘welcome home’ for the returning cult figure of Mark Cook who spent a large portion of his career at Ibrox during the nine-in-a-row period. Cook and his side were given a warm welcome as they came out of the tunnel.

Like Smith stated once the whistle went it was back to business, Cook lamented his sides inability to convert chances of late and while tonight they missed a score of chances they still ran a riot beating Rangers by four goals with Van Persie hitting form once again.

David Weir the figure who has held Rangers together at the back was badly found out tonight, while in the SPL he has performed well Van Persie bossed and tormented him for 90 minutes.
The rout started with less than 60 seconds on the clock, an absolute disaster start for Rangers that would have no silver lining. Rangers attempted to attack from the off and it backfired with a stunning counter move from Arsenal.

Ramsey started the move after Gallas disposed Kenny Miller all too easily on the edge of the Arsenal box, his long range pass found Van Persie a series of quick flowing passes between Van Persie, Walcott and Rosicky ensued getting the side quickly up the field. Rosicky gave the ball to Ramsey who found the killer pass the side have lacked since Arshavins injury.

His perfectly weighted pass took Weir and young Wilson out of the game, Van Persie was through and his low vicious drilled shot smashed into the bottom corner. Allan McGregor had no chance and immediately rounded on his flat defence.

Somehow it took until first half extra time for Arsenal to enhance their lead, Van Persie blasted over the bar in a one on one situation. Theo Walcott wasted a similar opportunity as he passed the ball into the arms of McGregor, not on one occasion but three times in the first half, admittedly his third was foiled by a stunning save from McGregor.

The second finally came from another counter attack and Walcott went a short way to repaying his side after wasting three perfect chances. In extra time Rangers packed the box for a throw in seemingly smelling an equaliser in the air. Whittakers throw was easily headed away by Senderos, the ball flew up to Van Persie at the half way line, his pass unleashed Walcott on a stunning run from the centre circle.

The lightning fast striker stormed out to the right wing, charging on down the wing with Papac pointlessly giving chase, he simply had no chance of catching him. His cross was perfectly centred into the box for Van Persie who continued his own run, he all too easily beat the experienced Weir to power home his second of the match.

After the restart Arsenal did not let up on Rangers, the English giants intent on dishing out a serious beating. Just after the hour mark the post denied Van Persie his hattrick, Ramsey once again set him up and his shot from the edge of the box smashed into the post and away, but it was simply a sign of things to come.

As the game went on and space opened Arsenal were in their element, exploiting the space and turning the fixture in something close to a training ground exercise. Song cleared the ball forward and when Weir should have dealt with it his terrible first touch was pounced on by Eduardo, his quick thinking set Van Persie on a storming run from the centre circle. Barrelling down on goal with no opposition the striker drilled the ball low and into the bottom corner completing his hattrick and piling misery on McGregor who was again let down by a poor defence.

Minutes later McGregor again kept the score down, a low drilled shot from Eduardo was palmed around the post. As full time approached Van Persie demonstrated the gulf in talent between the teams with a beautiful move. Demonstrating his two footed ability he jinked his way through the Rangers defence, before setting himself up on his left to pass the ball into the bottom corner completing a stunning solo and team performance with his fourth goal of the game.

One black spot on the fixture was the dismissal of Bacary Sagna, Rangers mustered an attack in the dying minutes and with a booking to his name already Sagna foolishly brought down Rothen. It was a foolish foul with the result in the bag Sagna should have stayed on his feet, a yellow card was rightly dished out followed by a red.

Full time and with the few Rangers fans who remained a respectful applaud was dished out to Arsenal who were simply outstanding. One very slim silver lining may have been the fact Walcott should have bagged a hattrick of his own but poor finishing left the scoreline at a semi-respectable 4-0.

Rangers McGregor, Whittaker, Papac, Weir, Wilson (Omozusi ’45), McCulloch, Davis, Beasley (Rothen ’66), Thomson (Boyd ’22), Mendes, Miller
Subs Not Used Alexander, Wylde, Cole Durie

Arsenal Almunia, Sagna, Clichy, Gallas, Senderos, Song Fabregas, Ramsey (Eboue ’87), Rosicky (Diaby ’61), Walcott (Eduardo ’61), Van Persie
Subs Not Used Mannone, Gibbs, Vermaelen, Bendtner
Booked Sagna, Ramsey
Red Card Sagna
Goals Van Persie 1, 45+2, 74, 80

Man of the Match Robin Van Persie (9.6 on for 90 minutes)

Referee Helmut Fleischer

Ibrox 47,980

[shanghai_nobody]

By Mandeep Sanghera

Burnley have had mixed luck against the ‘top four’ so far this season, in their second match since promotion seen them smash champions Manchester United 3-1 at Turf Moor before Chelsea visited to dish out a 4-0 thrashing. With Arsenal visiting today Cook paid homage to Burnley, “These are the games that can make or break our title credentials. Burnley can beat the big teams, we have to play at our peak and dig in for anything out of this match.”

Cooks side done just that and left Burnley battered and bruised on the end of a 4-0 thumping, Andrey Arshavin stole the show after returning from injury to score two goals and generally run rampant as he has done so far this season.

Bendtner returned to the fold after Theo Walcott failed to convert a string of chances against Rangers, the only headache for new Arsenal manager Mark Cook is who to partner Robin Van Persie with which he is still seemingly try to figure out.

Arshavin only took ten minutes to score, the Russian attacking midfielder has been deadly, any worries Cook had about Arshavin retaining the form he had at the start of the season before a hamstring injury ruled him out for three weeks, were banished with todays performance.

A sumptuous passing move from Arsenal carved open the Burnley backline with consummate ease, Moutinho has grown with each performance and his pass to Bendtner was perfect for the Dane to play the ball into space for Arshavin to run onto. The little Russian was too quick for Burnley, Arshavin charged on through the criminal amount of space afforded to him and passed the ball into the bottom corner, a cool finish.

Burnley managed to contain the Arsenal attack for most of the first half, but fate dealt them a blow as just before the half time whistle some unusual route one football from Arsenal yielded a second goal for the visitors, almost certainly killing off the game before the first half had even finished.

Almunia launched a freekick up the field, Van Persie who is seemingly in the best form of his life used his chest to control the ball and take it past Carlisle. Setting himself up for a one on one with his beautiful first touch there was only going to be one conclusion, his second touch took the ball around the sprawling Kenny and his third passed it into an empty net. As a target man the Dutch striker has thrived, his inclusion in play at the centre of the park has finally produced the finish Arsenal have missed in recent seasons.

Despite coasting to victory so far Arsenal did not let up in the second half, under Cook the London club have constantly set out to attack till the last minute and dominate games. Seemingly Arsenal are no longer a side to surrender healthy leads and refuse to take their foot off the gas until the final whistle is blown.

As the game neared its end it seemed Burnley may escape with a respectable 2-0 defeat until Eduardo popped up to make it three. The Croatian striker has struggled to establish himself as a first team regular under Cook, Eduardo was impressive after coming off the bench and will hope his performance will give him a run in the first team.

A quickly taken freekick led to a swift attack, Eboue laid the ball off to Eduardo who drilled the ball low into the corner with his second touch. An effortless strike from Eduardo to put his side further in front.

Extra time came and the torrid time Burnley were suffering was not over yet, a well worked ball to Arshavin led to a deft touch from the Russian to take it round his marker while going the other way, reminiscent of Bergkamps goal against Newcastle. His second touch was a sweet half volley from just outside the box straight into the top corner.

With Arshavin back and in form Arsenal were absolutely lethal today, Burnley were never given a chance to get into the game. A constant flow of attacking football pinned the new boys back in their own half, mostly in their own box. Meanwhile N’Koulou came on to make his debut, in the ten minutes he was on the young centre back seemed calm and composed on the ball.

Burnley Penny, Bikey, Carlisle, Duff, Elliott (Alexander ’45), Brennan, Gudjonsson, Edgar (Mears ’45), McCann, Nugent (Blake ’62), Fletcher
Subs Not Used Jensen, Thomson, McDonald, Eagles
Booked Gudjonsson

Arsenal Almunia, Eboue, Clichy, Gallas, Vermaelen, Veloso (N’Koulou ’78), Moutinho, Fabregas (Ramsey ’58), Arshavin, Bendtner (Eduardo ’58), Van Persie
Subs Not Used Mannone, Senderos, Rosicky, Walcott
Booked Veloso, Moutinho
Goals Arshavin 10, 90+1, Van Persie 45, Eduardo 78

Man of the Match Andrey Arshavin (8.7 on for 90 minutes)

Referee Steve Tanner

Turf Moor 22,516